Fresh PS4 specs leaked, new controller, user accounts detailed

Kotaku has received leaked PlayStation 4 (codenamed Orbis) documentation detailing technical specs of Sony’s next-gen console, as well as a new controller design and handling of user accounts.

The information apparently comes from an individual identified as SuperDae, who also tried to sell a pair of next-gen Xbox dev kits on eBay.

Kotaku indicates that their best sources are giving mixed opinion on whether the Orbis will launch in 2013 or 2014.

As Kotaku notes, these are specs indicated for Orbis development consoles, and will not necessarily be the same as the retail version.

Orbis development kits – model # DVKT-KS000K – as of January 2013.

System Memory: 8GB

Video Memory: 2.2GB

CPU: 4x Dual-Core AMD64 “Bulldozer” (so, 8x cores)

GPU: AMD R10xx

Ports: 4x USB 3.0, 2x Ethernet

Drive: Blu-Ray

HDD: 160GB

Audio Output: HDMI & Optical, 2.0, 5.1 & 7.1 channels

Comparing this to previously revealed Orbis specs from reliable sources at Eurogamer, it appears that the PS4 has a bit more RAM grunt than previously thought – again, this could be due to a development console needing overhead. According to Eurogamer’s Digital Foundry, the PlayStation Orbis features 4GB of GDDR5 – an extremely fast type of RAM that usually ships with PC graphics cards.

PlayStation 4 (Orbis) new controller design

A new controller is in development, known as the Orbis Development Tool. It will feature the same features PS3 gamers have become accustomed to, including vibration support and and improved tilt-sensing.

The standard buttons will be present, along with a new “Share” button, the purpose of which remains a mystery at this point.

Kotaku’s information disputes an earlier rumour of a touch-screen on the Orbis controller, instead suggesting that it features a two-point multi-touch pad – perhaps something similar to that found on the rear of the PS Vita. Kotaku had no information to confirm the presence of biometric sensors in the controller.

PlaySation 4 (Orbis) new user account system

Reportedly, Sony will be introducing a “multi-user simultaneous login” system on the Orbis, allowing for more than one person to be logged into the system at a time.

This is done by linking the controller to a user account when it is connected. The account won’t be locked to the controller. This obviously opens up the possibility of sharing trophies among multiple players in a game, among other features.

What do you think of this latest batch of PS4 Orbis information? Let us know in the comments below and on the MyGaming forum.